Definition of a Golf Ball

By Brendan O'Brien

The United States Golf Association (USGA) sets specifications for equipment that is allowed to be used by golfers. This equipment includes golf balls. While a golf ball is pretty simple to define, it has specifications that golf equipment makers need to follow to conform with rules of the game.

Weight

A golf ball cannot weigh more than 1.620 ounces. The USGA does not set a minimum weight for golf balls since there is no distinct advantage in playing with a lighter ball.

Size

The diameter of a golf ball must be no less than 1.680, according to the USGA. There is no maximum size in terms of diameter, but the ball cannot exceed the weight standard.

Spherical Symmetry

A golf ball must be symmetrical. More specifically, a golf ball maker must intend to make each ball "behave as though it is symmetrical," according to the USGA.

Velocity and Distance

The USGA sets standards as to how fast and far a ball can travel. These standards can change as the game and technology evolve.

Color and Design

A golf ball can be any color the manufacturer wishes. Most balls are white, but there is a sector of the market that likes yellow, pink and orange golf balls. Golf balls are also designed with dimples on the cover.

About The Author

Brendan O'Brien is a professional journalist in Milwaukee, Wis. He has worked for several news organizations, newspapers such as the "Milwaukee Journal Sentinel" and trade magazines during his 15-year career. He is currently a freelance writer who works for several publications.

Not a Member?

Join Now - It's FREE!

Member Sign In

Email Address

Password

Keep me logged in

Forgot your password?

Nearby Tee Time HOT Deals!

Monday, Feb 13 to Saturday, Feb 18

Best Golf Balls & Golf Ball Technology

The design of golf balls has gone high-tech. When a golfer hits a ball,...

USGA Golf Shaft Rules

The United States Golf Association (USGA) is the final authority on eve...

Golf Tees

Golf tees are the smallest and simplest of all golf equipment, but the ...

Wilson Golf Ball History

Wilson Sporting Goods opened its doors in Chicago in 1914, and initiall...

List of Golf Club Drivers That Are Not Legal

The U.S. Golf Association (USGA) publishes a list every week of drivers...

View All Related Articles

Golf Equipment Tip of the Day

Choose the Putter Designed for Your Golf Game
by Staff
If you've ever been humbled after having your stroke analyzed at one of those high-tech putting studios, you know why the adage "feel is not real" is, well, real. After all, when examined under a microscope, all the flaws of your stroke are magnified. Your path goes left, your clubface is open, you hit everything off the toe--the data doesn't lie and sometimes all that bad news is enough to make you want to impale your flat stick into the monitor. What's important to keep in mind, however, is that our strokes demand specific kinds of putters.

View Tip